Laboratory Animal Technician - College of Engineering - Biomedical Engineering

Core Responsibilities

• Ensure all animal-related activities are conducted in compliance with IACUC-approved protocols, institutional policies, and applicable regulatory standards (e.g., USDA, AAALAC, NIH).
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of animal care, health observations, procedures, and study activities.
• Afford assistance with treatment administration, post-procedural monitoring, and recovery care as directed.
• Support research procedures including animal handling and restraint, dosing, sample collection (e.g., blood and tissue), and data recording.
• Provide assistance with both surgical and non-surgical procedures under the supervision of the surgical manager, including anesthesia monitoring and perioperative care.
• Participate in behavioral training, acclimation protocols, and other study-specific procedures as required.
• Prepare, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment, supplies, and procedure areas to ensure safe and efficient study execution.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, training, and acclimating research participants (staff/students) to the lab.
• Adhere strictly to biosafety, PPE, and sanitation practices.
• Collaborate effectively with veterinarians, researchers, and animal care staff across multiple studies, and assist in training new staff and students in proper animal handling and basic research procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support study needs and animal welfare.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree
• Veterinary Technician degree/certificate or equivalent training.
• 1-3 years’ Experience
• Hands-on animal care, handling and restraint across multiple species
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
• Bachelor’s degree
• AALAS certification (ALAT, LAT, or LATG); additional training in anesthesia monitoring or surgical assistance.
• Experience working with animals in a research or laboratory setting, assisting with anesthesia and surgical procedures, sample collection, and study documentation.
• Rodent and/or large animal experience.

Requirements

• Successful background check
• Ability to handle and restrain animals of varying sizes, including large animals (pigs, sheep).
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and pull/push equipment as required.
• Visual acuity for detailed observations and recordkeeping.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and respond to emergencies.
• Working Conditions: Required to stand and/or walk for extended periods and function in constricted spaces when needed.
• May be required to work irregular or extended hours, including nights, weekends, and emergency calls depending on study needs.
• Routine exposure to biological materials, anesthetic agents, and cleaning/disinfecting chemicals.
• May be required to travel to off-campus or remote study locations.